Leveling Up Together: How a Uptown Arcade Was Built by Community

February 20, 2026 - 17:16

The glow of arcade cabinets and the hum of gaming PCs in Uptown’s Battlebox Video Games represents more than just entertainment; it’s the culmination of a lifelong passion and community effort. Owner Bryant Wilcox traces the business's origins back to a deep-seated love for video games, a constant thread from childhood into adulthood.

What began as a personal dream evolved into a shared project. Wilcox emphasizes that Battlebox was not built in isolation. Instead, its foundation was poured by local gamers and supporters who believed in creating a dedicated social space. From early concept discussions to the physical setup, community input was instrumental. Patrons offered advice on game selections, shared equipment, and provided crucial word-of-mouth support long before the doors officially opened.

This collaborative spirit shaped Battlebox into a vibrant hub where camaraderie is as important as competition. It stands as a testament to how a small business can thrive when it grows from genuine connections, transforming a personal hobby into a welcoming destination for all. The story of Battlebox underscores the power of shared interests in building something lasting and meaningful for a neighborhood.